Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, and truth be told, it might taste even better the next day. Like many Southern comfort dishes, flavors settle and deepen overnight. Just refrigerate and reheat gently.

Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen ones?

Absolutely. Fresh meatballs are lovely. If they are raw, brown them first or adjust cooking time so they reach safe temperature. If they are already cooked, you can add them as you would frozen ones.

Which method gives the best texture: smoking, baking, or crock pot?

Each method gives a different kind of goodness. Smoking adds deep flavor and caramelization. Baking is reliable and quick. A crock pot gives an even, tender result. Choose based on the time you have and the mood you want to make.

How do I keep the sauce from becoming too thin?

Let it simmer a bit uncovered toward the end so water reduces. If the sauce is still thin, whisk in a small slurry of cornstarch and water on low heat until it thickens slightly.

What are good sides to serve with this?

Think of simple Southern partners: cornbread, creamy mashed potatoes, tangy slaw, or a bright green salad. A pile of buttery biscuits will also do the job with grace.

Easy Smoked BBQ Meatballs and Little Smokies 2026

Name: Smoked BBQ Meatballs and Little Smokies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 32 oz bag frozen meatballs; 24 oz package little smokies sausages; 1 cup BBQ sauce; 1/2 cup grape jelly; 1/2 cup sweet Thai chili sauce

Description

A warm, comforting dish of smokey barbecue meatballs and little smokies infused with sweet grape jelly and tangy BBQ sauce, perfect for gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

32 oz bag frozen meatballs
24 oz package little smokies sausages
1 cup BBQ sauce
1/2 cup grape jelly
1/2 cup sweet Thai chili sauce

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Instructions

Place frozen meatballs and little smokies into a foil pan or baking dish in a single layer.
Pour BBQ sauce, grape jelly, and sweet Thai chili sauce over the top but do not mix yet.
If smoking, smoke at 225°F for 2 hours, then increase to 375°F for the final 30 minutes. If baking, bake at 350°F for 30–40 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Stir the mixture once it begins to warm to fully coat the meatballs and smokies in sauce.
If smoking, let the higher heat finish thicken and caramelize the sauce in the last 30 minutes.
Let it cool slightly before serving. Spoon extra sauce over each serving for maximum flavor!

Notes

For added richness, stir in a tablespoon of butter just before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 120 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Smoking/Baking
Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 400
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 40mg